The courtroom drama surrounding music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs continues to intensify as former Danity Kane and Diddy – Dirty Money member Dawn Richard took the stand in the federal case against her former mentor. In her powerful testimony, Richard echoed the harrowing claims previously laid out by singer Cassie Ventura, adding her own disturbing allegations to the growing list of accusations.

Richard, who worked closely with Diddy during the mid-2000s as part of his successful Making the Band franchise, testified under oath about years of alleged abuse. According to Richard, Diddy frequently groped her without consent, forced her to strip in his presence, and subjected her to emotionally abusive treatment while working under his label.

DAWN RICHARD CIVIL LAWSUIT

The testimony comes after Dawn Richard filed a civil lawsuit in 2024, accusing Combs of sexual misconduct and inhumane working conditions during her time with his groups. In court, she detailed specific incidents that mirrored patterns of control, coercion, and physical abuse described by Cassie Ventura, who previously testified over a four-day period.

“I saw the fear in her eyes,” Richard reportedly said, describing moments when she witnessed Combs physically assaulting Cassie during their time together. “I was afraid to speak out for years.”

The federal trial—which includes charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and physical assault—has already rocked the entertainment industry. Cassie’s testimony stunned the public with claims of drug-fueled coercion, rape, and financial manipulation. Now, Richard’s corroborating statements are helping prosecutors build a clearer picture of a pattern of alleged abuse within Diddy’s inner circle.

AUSA: Who is depicted in this photo?
Dawn Richard: Cassie.
AUSA: In 2009 did you observe an incident between Puff and Cassie?
Dawn Richard: She was attacked by Sean Combs, kicked
AUSA: Did you see more violence by him against Cassie?
Dawn Richard: Often

— Inner City Press (@innercitypress) May 16, 2025

AUSA: Then what?
Dawn Richard: Sean Combs was kicking her in the head and body, then dragged her up to the first floor, glass breaking and yelling. I was scared for her, and for me too
AUSA: Did you intervene?
Dawn Richard: No.
AUSA: Do you call police?
No.

— Inner City Press (@innercitypress) May 16, 2025

[Back from sidebar]
Judge Subramanian: Jurors, you can leave for the weekend, watch the Yankees play the Mets, or the Knicks. If you’re not into sports there’s a lot going on. See you Monday.
[Jurors leave]
Judge; Mr. Richard, you can leave

— Inner City Press (@innercitypress) May 16, 2025

AUBREY O’DAY TO TAKE THE STAND

Also expected to take the stand is Aubrey O’Day, another former Danity Kane member, who has previously spoken out against Diddy. She, along with witnesses referred to as “Jane” and “Mia,” is scheduled to testify in the coming days.

Diddy has denied all allegations, calling them “false and salacious.” However, the weight of multiple testimonies from former colleagues and collaborators is placing increasing pressure on his legal team.

This trial is not only a legal battle—it’s a reckoning for the legacy of a man who shaped an entire era of hip hop and R&B. With more testimonies ahead, including from high-profile figures connected to Diddy’s past, the world is watching closely.

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